Wednesday, 3 December 2008

Firstly, I would just like to wish you all a healthy and prosperous New Year. If you're an aspiring author, then I wish you good luck with all your submissions. If you are an author, then I sincerely hope you get the publication and success you deserve. If you are a publisher, then let's give thanks to all the fantastic submissions that come your way, and if you are a reader, then God bless you. Where would all the above be without you?

I'd also like to give special thanks to all who contributed to The Romance eBooks Christmas Newsletter last year. It has been a great success with lots of interest and comments being mailed my way. The promotion, as always, has been fantastic for all.

The New Year issue opens the doors for new releases, reviews and competitions. 2009 is a fresh start for authors to create that next love story buzzing around in the back of their minds, and hopefully, I may be promoting a few of those stories later on in the year. But for now, let's look at what The Romance eBooks New Year Newsletter has on offer.

Remember to click the titles on the menu list to the left for quicker link ups.

This blog is constantly updated.

New Releases

As always, this is a popular page. Take a look at some of the releases, past, present and future, and if you like what you see, then click on the link for direct purchasing details. If you would like to add your release to this issue or the next, then contact me at romanceebooks@yahoo.co.uk

Contest WinnerEvery issue will now have a contest winner. In November, Tracy Preston jumped the Author Spotlight queue and won a page all to herself in The New Year Newsletter issue. To find out how she did this, read all about Tracy in her Author Spotlight. (Contest details can be found on the last page.)

Special Guest

I am always honoured when a Harlequin author contributes to my newsletter. As one of Mills & Boon's biggest fans, they have my greatest respect. Christina Hollis is my Special Guest in this issue. As an author of my favourite M&B category, you can discover some of the suppressed desires that Modern Romance has to offer in a selection of her blurbs and fantastic covers.

Author Spotlight

Join Pamela Thibodeaux in the Author Spotlight. Learn all about her writing and the success of her publications. This is one hard working author!

Author Interviews

I ask Lee Morrison a few questions about her new release and what her plans are for 2009. To find out more about this author, read her interview with me.

Also, we ask Jenny Gilliam about her erotic alter ego, Piper Foxx.

Author SpotlightFind out more about Minnette Meador and her books in our second Author Spotlight.American Title V

Take on the challenge of American Title V!!!

If you'd like to place an advert in The Romance eBooks Newsletter, contact me at romanceebooks@yahoo.co.ukFree Read Short Story

Here is the blurb for this issue's short story free read -'Rendezvous'

'Full bodied, dark and continental. Can French men really taste as good as their coffee? Rendezvous Bar and Café is famous for its romantic encounters, but when Dana Lewis serves Luc Devereaux his café noir, she’s ready to pour the beverage over his head.'

BLURB: Exhilarating sex with an Arabian millionaire is the last thing Ashleigh Brennan expects after an illicit affair with her boss leaves her unemployed and without dignity. She vows never to be misled by first impressions again—until she meets wealthy, handsome Remmao Kamal. He’s full of passion and eastern promise—but for how long?It’s hard to believe that this wealthy bachelor isn’t married, but his playboy lifestyle aboard his yacht has had its repercussions. After a succession of harbor pickups, his misjudgement of a lover’s intention put his life at risk. Since then, he has been determined to put his womanising days behind him—until Ashleigh walks into his life.Their sexual attraction is immediate and the temptation for Remmao to break his vow of harbor celibacy is as strong as Ashleigh’s desire to protect her heart. But will a one-night stand with no commitments be enough for them?'

BLURB: A man is for life and not just for Christmas – or so the saying goes.When Leah Stamford accepts the offer to spend the festive season in Greece with her co-worker, Marcus Savakis, the last thing she expects to be unwrapping, is him. But after one ouzo too many, and with a voluptuous ex-girlfriend tempting Marcus back into her ample bosom, Leah will stop at nothing to win her colleague’s affections — though seduction isn't one of her talents. Leah's frigidness was the reason she lost her last boyfriend. Now it’s time to prove to herself that she can be daring and sexy.But has she got what it takes to seduce Marcus away from the desires of his ex-girlfriend? And can her timidness compete with this erotic Greek goddess?

BLURB: "A man is for life and not just for Christmas" – or so the saying goes! When Leah Stamford accepts the offer to spend the festive season in Greece with her co-worker, Marcus Savakis, the last thing she expects to be unwrapping is him. But after one ouzo too many, with a voluptuous ex-girlfriend tempting Marcus back into her ample bosom, Leah will stop at nothing to win his affections – but seduction has never been one of her specialties. That's what lost Leah her last boyfriend. Now it’s time to prove to herself that she can be daring and sexy. But has she got what it takes to seduce Marcus away from the desires of his ex-girlfriend? Can her timidity compete with this erotic Greek goddess?

SUGAR SHACKby Paisley Scott. Available from The Wild Rose Press

BLURB: Ten years ago, Catherine Bennett said good-bye to her fiancé, Luke MacKenzie, and his maple farm in Vermont. She wanted to be somebody. She wanted to break out of a small town existence and live the city life. But the higher she flew, the less satisfied she was, in love and life. She had left her heart behind. And she'd never forgotten the sizzling sex with blond-haired, muscular Luke.Now, when her job takes her back home to Vermont, old feelings flame to life. But is Luke still interested? Is he married? And can he ever forgive her for leaving him so long ago? Only one thing's for sure; there's still an attraction. And their reconciliation will burn hotter than the fireworks that light up the New Years Eve sky!Buy Link: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/wilderroses/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=654

PLAYING FOR KEEPS by Devon Gray. Available from The Wild Rose PressBLURB: Pasts are best left behind, hidden deep in your memory—that is where I buried mine. The feel of his hands and mouth on my body, the height of sensuality I reached beneath his touch. I'd fought so hard to forget—how could just the sight of him bring it all back, forcing me to become lost in him? Again.Years before I had watched him, craved him—a guitarist in a band riding the wave to stardom—my brother's best friend. On the verge of womanhood, I never dared to reveal how I yearned. Until a cold New Year's Eve when I offered myself as the woman I'd become, bringing to fruition the deepest of wants. As that night turned, so did my life. Devastatingly so. I never dreamed I'd become another of his one night stands.Can pasts be exorcised if they come back to haunt you? And when a notorious playboy who broke your heart offers you his…how do you know if he's playing for keeps?Buy link:http://www.thewildrosepress.com/wilderroses/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=656

'Blindfolded By Lust' by April Vine. Available from The Wild Rose Press.

BLURB: A blindfold of silk to heighten all senses, adding sultriness to pleasure, mystery to identities…Five years ago, Kelly Paton's friends devised a New Year's resolution to relieve her of her virginity and catapult her platonic relationship with David van Wyk into a mind-blowing passion-fest. But not only did the blindfold conceal Kelly's vulnerability, it also masked the identity of the virile man who took as he pleased.Nothing could have stopped Adam van Wyk from the blindfolded beauty dressing his brother's bed. After all, she was only David's present to himself, a dalliance while he waited on the virgin heiress he was in love with. Or was she?Five New Years' later, David once again has Kelly within arms' reach but the wounds of betrayal aren't quite healed. Can Adam resist reliving the tempting memories and put his brother's happiness before his own, or will he risk it all and finally claim the one woman he's ever loved?Buy link: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/wilderroses/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=658main_page=product_info&products_id=658

Stroke of Midnight by Ana Aragon

BLURB: When newly appointed U.S. Attorney Ro Garcia agreed to waitress for her sister's big catering job, she had no idea she would run into the biggest mistake of her life—Jake Anderson.The musician from her past is hot, hunky and oh-so-handy, and the current of sexual tension between them hasn't dissipated one megawatt. Newly divorced, she's finally ready to work him out of her system with a weekend of no-holds-barred sex and picks romantic Santa Fe, New Mexico as the perfect, out of the way location for their passionate rendezvous.Though ready, willing, and able to burn up the sheets with Ro, Jake has every intention of convincing her he's after more than her luscious body and the hot, passionate sex she's offering. But secrets have a way of getting out, and lies surface that threaten to tear them apart. Is Jake destined to lose the love of his life once again? Or can he convince Ro things are seldom as they seem?Buy link: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/wilderroses/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=661

One Evening in London by Rae Lori$3.99Available December 23, 2008

BLURB: Angela is a newly published author at a book party celebrating the launch of her premiere book. She has been in bad relationships before and is skeptical about entering another. Paul is the publicist for her publishing company. His marriage is on the rocks, but he is a faithful man, continuing to respect the institution despite his wife’s infidelities. The attraction is apparent between the two, but before the night is over both will learn a little bit more about race, the boundaries of love and human nature.To Buy: http://www.freyasbower.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=7&products_id=156

'Her Sanctuary' by Toni Anderson. Available from The Wild Rose Press.

BLURB: Running for her life, ex-FBI agent Elizabeth Ward escapes to Montana with a new identity. She craves peace and solitude, but instead finds handsome rancher, Nat Sullivan. Nat is trying to hold his ailing family together, while struggling to keep the ranch from bankruptcy. The last thing he needs is a beautiful stranger reminding him there is more to life than work. But Elizabeth isn't what she seems. And when a murderer and rapist track her down to the remote ranch, they all find out about the power of revenge. Revenge or Redemption. Which would you choose?TO BUY:http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=1093&zenid=cf58c696f5597bfa18a371624e8c0bef

BLURB: What is your wildest fantasy about getting a tattoo? A night out on the town with a friend ends up bringing Serena to a tattoo parlor. There she discovers a tattoo that takes a hold of her. Something about it calls to her. Body art can bring pleasure to its owner but this tattoo brings more pleasure then Serena ever imagined.Will Serena’s tattoo give her more pleasure than she could imagine or will it be a fleeting moment of pleasure after the pain?Buy Now http://redrosepublishing.com/bookstore/product_info.php?products_id=225

'For One Night Only' by Luxie Ryder. Available from Siren Publishing.

BLURB: For one night only—that's all Dr Bethany Shaw tells herself she can handle. Still reeling from a past relationship, she trusts no one. The encounter with a mesmerizing rock star threatens to change her life forever. Can she let go of the pain and learn to love again?For one night only—that's all Latino rock singer Ruben Navarro can promise, both on stage and in bed. Bored long ago of the readily available women, his sole passion is his charity, until he meets a reserved but sexy doctor who makes him want to forget his past.For one night only—that's all she ever had, but it would never be enough for the damaged young woman who watches Ruben's every move from the shadows. The promise of being with him again is all she lives for--and nobody is going to get in her way.TO BUY: http://www.sirenpublishing.com/luxieryder/fono.asp

Men In Shorts: An Erotic Anthology by Various authorsEdited by: Lori PerkinsPublish Date: 2008-12-01ISBN: 978-1-60777-060-2

BLURB: There is nothing like summer, when the weather changes and the men change into their summer shorts. And basketball shorts. And cut-offs. And board shorts!Here are 11 erotic short stories featuring all those wicked fantasies we’ve ever had about the mailman, the cop, the athlete, and the gardener.And G.I. Joe!With legs bared and muscles flexing, these men in shorts are sure to inspire, entertain, and titillate you!

Special Deliveryby Savannah Chase(featured in Men In Shorts: An Erotic Anthology)Kara has always wanted to do something exciting, something daring, like have a one night stand. But, she’s never been bold enough. Then she meets Julian, her gorgeous mailman. Kara almost blows her chance until a single lost letter brings him unexpectedly knocking on her door. Will Kara make her move or will she let another opportunity slip through her fingers.Buy Now http://www.ravenousromance.com/real-man-romance/men-in-shorts-an-erotic-anthology.php?flypage=0

BLURB: Her fantasy man is up for auction. Will Nico dare to bid?Nico’s history of romantic disasters has taught her when she gambles on men, she fated to lose. That doesn’t stop her from secretly lusting after Jeff, the handsome construction worker she sees everyday on her way to work.When the New York’s Sexiest Bachelor auction begins and Jeff comes up on the block, she’s seriously tempted to place a bid. The wager can’t be taken lightly — it might be for a good cause, but she’s making a bid for love……Buy Now http://www.lyricalpress.com/bid_for_love.html

BLURB: Whatever happened to good, old-fashioned romance? Remember reading about a man’s clothed physique, or how a fellow admired a woman in a pretty red dress? How about stories where couples fall in love with just one glance or that first gentle touch? Then open this anthology and enjoy 18 beautiful stories of love lost, love found, intrigue, heartache healed, the miracles of life, passionate admissions, and tearjerkers that make one sigh with longing. From best friends who find romance to time travel to a bit of Christmas magic, step into the realm of hearts on fire and love everlasting.

'Caribbean Dreams of Love' by Bess McBride. Available from The Wild Rose Press

Blurb: Daisy and her sixteen-year-old daughter, Lily, are embarking on a Caribbean cruise. She isn't looking for anything special on the cruise other than a pleasant break from her humdrum existence as long-time divorced single mother to a busy teenage girl. She certainly isn't prepared for an enigmatic man named Peter whose idiosyncrasies in dress and speech mark him as an eccentric person to avoid. But Daisy can't avoid him. In fact, she begins to obsess about him from the first moment she catches him staring at her in the cruise ship terminal. Peter remains elusive and mysterious throughout the cruise. She catches sight of him occasionally, never often enough to please her, and they connect one wonderful night as he sweeps her into his arms for a waltz. A waltz? On a Caribbean cruise ship? While Daisy's dinner companions share nightly tales of the legends of cursed pirates, Daisy dreams of the mysterious man who has captured her heart.Buy Link: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=1083&zenid=158e2bb07c492a5af9aa0e192c694c7f

'Conspiracy of Angels' by Zinnia Hope. Available in print format from Freya's Bower.

BLURB: You'll love to hate her, want to hug her, yell at her, and then root for her. Raised by a Bible-beating grandmother and a starstruck mother, naturally, Elizabeth has issues.

Forced to leave town seven years ago by the local minister, Elizabeth has returned. With the help of some meddling angels and her overbearing grandmother, she finally finds her way back to her one true love. Sometimes, a bit of heavenly conspiracy is required to set things right.

Based on true-life accounts, Conspiracy of Angels is a controversial tale of deception within Christianity where sex is a sin unless there's a gold band on the ring finger and people gossip while sequestering the skeletons in their own closets.Rating: TangyBook Length: Plus NovelPrice: $12.99 -- printGenre: Angels/Demons/ContemporaryBUY LINK: http://www.freyasbower.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3&products_id=69

'Mr. Delicious' by Zinnia Hope. Available from Freya's Bower.

Blurb: Vega has a problem: she's from the Lyra Constellation. Her appearance is so exotic that men find her lavender hair, pale blue eyes and snowy skin both alluring and frightening. However, when Dietrich Raze, one of the top ten wealthiest men in the Three Worlds, can't seem to stay away from her, Vega falls head over heels. But is his interest real, or is he using her to dispute some wild rumors that might prove he isn't what he seems?Erotic Romance: MC/IR,Sci-fi/FuturisticISBN: 978-1-60435-164-4Cover Artist: Merris HawEditor: Savannah FriersonWord Count: 10,030Release Date: June 19, 2008BUY LINK: http://redrosepublishing.com/bookstore/product_info.php?products_id=183

BLURB: A relationship between a dragon shifter and a wizard was unheard of—and certainly frowned upon. Yet, Grania found Dylan nearly irresistible, feared, knew, if he ever touched her she’d never be able to control the mating fire.With Dragonia torn by civil war and the rebels winning the fight, it was only a matter of time before the dragon shifters focused on earth in their determination to take back what mankind had taken from them centuries before. The wizard Dylan Lightfoot was their only hope, the only one capable of conjuring the spell they needed to defeat the rebels, and it was Grania’s duty to defend him at whatever cost.She hadn’t suspected what it would cost her, though, would never have believed she would find her soul mate to be a wizard, not one of her kind.Buy Link: http://www.newconceptspublishing.com/dragonsheart.htmTrailer Link: http://www.youtube.com/user/MarlyMathews

BLURB: Across the plains of 1870 Wyoming, an extraordinary house exist called Sweetbrier. Inside await lucious laides easy on the eye, schooled in all the graces, and bent on the pleasures of life. Come meet the Ladies of Sweetbrier.When a high stakes poker game offers the chance to win Faith's hand as their paramour, three players meet in the backroom. Drawn to Thaddeus Oakley, the construction foreman of the rail line, she must await the draw of the cards. Will Lady Luck smile upon Major Abrams, the spit and polish army officer who believes women are no more than a mark on the bedpost, Gregory Wilson the older executive from the railroad, or Thaddeus Oakley, the man of herdreams. Who will gain the ultimate prize of Having Faith? http://www.redrosepublishing.com/

BLURB: Annabelle Hawthorne-Morton is a beauty with a mysterious past—Lord Malachi Hawthorne is the beast that will touch her heart—she will heal his tortured soul and he will bring the light back into her dark world.Annabelle Hawthorne Morton hails from an ancient mystical line—even though she herself has not been endowed with the mark of magic that the magic-kind of Thaliana are born with. Despite this, she aspires for magical greatness, and while performing a spell the enchantment backfires in her face, robbing her of half her sight. But it doesn't take her long to realize that within a few months she will be completely blind. When her father enrages the local lord and he's imprisoned for his crimes, Annabelle must muster her courage and save her father from the beast's wrath.Lord Malachi Hawthorne, Earl of Markham has been horribly disfigured during a magical battle. His sister betrayed him—and now her curse has put him into his own living hell. Believing that the outside world will revile him for his monstrous appearance, he retreats to his enchanted castle. He is determined to make Annabelle's father his indentured servant, until he meets Annabelle. He quickly decides that she is the one that might finally set him free from his living hell, and knows he must have her as his own.Buy Link: http://www.newconceptspublishing.com/enchantedbeauty.htm

Do Or Die by Marly MathewsFuturistic ParanormalThe Wild Rose PressPrint and Ebook available

BLURB: The world has changed. Ten years ago, Earth nearly crumbled beneath the might of an intergalactic War. Their Enemy fought them with their destructive psychokinetic powers. Only a band of extraordinary humans stood in their path. They were known as the Gemini Order. Led by Shylah McKay, they saved Earth from ruination.Now, Shylah McKay and her kind are being persecuted for the very talents that saved Earth. But Shylah's a mover and a shaker, and with her lover Grayson by her side, she'll go to the ends of the Earth and beyond to fight for her people.Buy Link: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=957

'Decadent Deceptions' by Keta Diablo.

BLURB: Daring and desperate to win Morgan’s love, Olivia Breedlove embarks on a reckless folly. But everything backfires when Morgan remains one step ahead of her and the game ventures down a path of duplicity and murder.A decade ago, Morgan was a heartbeat away from taking Olivia’s virginity. Her father, Thaddeus, intervened and threatened to meet him over pistols if he so much as looked at his daughter again. But now, Thaddeus is dead and Morgan has no intention of ignoring the ravenous hunger he’s harbored for the blasted woman for ten years.One way or the other, he will quench this burning desire and make her his forever.Available from Noble Romance Publishing http://www.nobleromance.com/ItemDisplay.aspx?i=20

'Dust and Moonlight' by Keta Diablo.

BLURB: Balion, Prince of Locke Cress, waited a long time for the forest nymph with lavender eyes to come to him. The dreams told him it was just a matter of time. What they hadn’t told him was that he’d lose his heart to the strange creature from another world.After the serial killer attacked Kira, she awoke in a strange land. Now, she’s running for her life from wild boars, wizards, and sorcerers, not to mention a Prince that makes her body melt in all the wrong places. Facing extraordinary circumstances as the evil plots unfold, Kira fights for her life, and for a love that neither time nor distance can ever dispel from her soul.Available from Siren Publishing http://www.sirenpublishing.com/ketadiablo/dam.asp

'Land of Falling Stars' by Keta Diablo.

BLURB: Penniless, her parents and brother dead, Sophia Whitfield struggles to save her beloved childhood home during the Civil War. Another bluecoat is staggering down the hill, but before Sophia allows him to rob and pilfer like the others, she shoots him. How is she to know it is Gavin, the dark knight of her youth, carrying secrets too horrific to imagine and a passion that ignites her deepest desires?As Sophia gradually learns Gavin's secrets-and enjoys his talents in the bedroom-she discovers how to finally know her own heart. Can she save the Land of Falling Stars, or will she lose it all to the horrors of the War and Reconstruction? And will the Southern lady and the Yankee soldier be able to recapture the bliss of their youth - this time in each other's arms?Available from Ravenous Romance http://www.ravenousromance.com/once-upon-a-time/land-of-falling-stars.php

Romancing Rebecca by Amber Polo. Available from The Wild Rose Press.

Blurb:Romancing Rebecca by Amber Polo1 Woman + 2 Men in 1 Body = 1 Romance Just like real life.Unromantic Rebecca finds romance with a man who refuses to reveal his face AND a shy trance channeler.The least romantic woman in the world uses her legal skills to battle for romance writers. This high-powered attorney, confused by feelings she keeps hidden, arrives in Sedona where she's caught up in a mysterious romance with a man who sends roses, romance novels, and chocolate, but refuses to reveal his face. To make matters worse, Rebecca thinks she's falling for a shy trance channeler who discovers someone is using his body for romance and his credit card for internet purchases.BuyLink on TWRP http://tinyurl.com/romrebBuylink on Amazon http://tinyurl.com/Rebecca-Amazon

'Fuelled by Instinct' by Rebecca Savage.

BLURB: The Hero:Lane’s out for justice. He witnessed a horrible crime, the murder of Devin’s parents. So, he agrees to pretend to go into the Federal Witness Protection Program to set up and capture a mole within the ranks of the FBI. In the process, he finds himself captured…and captivated.

The Heroine:Devin’s out for revenge. Her parents were murdered, and the only man who can help her avenge them just happens to be the most gorgeous hunk of a man she’s ever seen. She joins forces with Lane, pretending to be on the run from the mole’s hit men, but really they’ve set a trap…and Devin's become entrapped…by Lane.

BLURB: The Hero:Hunter’s an ex-Navy SEAL turned Secret Service Agent extraordinaire. He’s never failed a mission, and he doesn’t plan to: especially his mission to conquer Rene’s heart.

The Heroine:Rene’s an assassin for the CIA who is being blackmailed to kill the current U.S. president, the former presidents, and a candidate in the upcoming election. She has no intention of doing so, but if she doesn’t, her self-proclaimed boss will kill her family…the family whose identity should be anonymous, but has somehow been discovered. She’s been found, identified, and marked, and she’s not having it.

The VillainRene’s mysterious ‘boss’ wants the presidents dead and his own candidate to win, for reasons known only to him. He threatens Rene and her family, secure in the belief she’ll do as she’s told. Instead, she sets a trap for him, stages their deaths, and in the process, finds love in the midst of danger.TO BUY: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=893

'Destination Ever After' by Rebecca Savage.

BLURB: The Hero:Austin’s been captured by the rebels and drug lords in South America, Columbia. He’s been beaten, but not badly enough that he doesn’t want Alicia from the moment he sees her

The Heroine:Alicia snipes for the DEA, but now her mission is a little different: rescue. She knows the area, so she’s been sent in with her chosen team of mercs. But Austin is no weakling, and he has information that changes the mission, and leads them on an adventure to find an American drug dealer, one who’s in the process of making a multi-million dollar trade. They search for the dealer, fight the rebels, and fall in love, the last of which Alicia never would’ve suspected she’d do in her whole life.TO BUY: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=917

The VillainAn American drug dealer, in the jungles of South America, a man who’s willing to kill anyone in his path…but Austin and Alicia aren’t that easy to kill.

'Primal Obsession' by Susan Vaughan. Available from The Wild Rose Press.

BLURB: Reporter Annie Wylde and Mother Nature are lifelong enemies, but she signs up for a Maine canoe trip to honor a promise to her friend who was murdered by a serial killer dubbed the Hunter. When she meets the wilderness guide, former Major Leaguer Sam Kincaid, a look from him makes her toes curl, but she wants nothing to do with an ex-jock like her former lover. Sam finds Annie a sexy challenge but believes he's a failure and they're too different. He needs to prove he can succeed at something, even with a bum hand. When the Hunter stalks the group, Sam and Annie must borrow from each other's strengths to defeat him.

In November this year, I held a contest on Jenny Gilliam's blog page to win an Author Spotlight. Many authors entered the contest - which was to leave me a comment with their name and current book title - and I would like to thank them all for taking an interest in The Romance eBooks Newsletter.

I chose Tracy's winning comment because of her honesty. We all need help with promotion, epecially if it's our first release, which is the main reason I set up The Romance eBooks myspace profile in February 2008. Since then, promotion for authors has progressed with speed to blog interviews and then to The Romance eBooks Newsletter.

So now, I'd like to congratulate Tracy on her chance to jump the Author Spotlight queue and make this page her own. Over to you, Tracy ...

Let me begin by saying I hope everyone had a fantastic Holiday Season, chocked full of family and fun! As for me, what better way to kick off 2009 than by being featured in the author's spotlight here in the Romance eBooks Newsletter.

I am a newly published author, and my first book was recently released by The Wild Rose Press. Destiny's Captive, a full-length, Regency period historical, is the first in a three part series called The Destiny Series. It is the story of a young girl who finds herself thrown into a treacherous world of espionage and murder, and into the seductive arms of the most infuriatingly stubborn man she's ever met, who also happens to be a pirate...well, sort of.

While Destiny's Captive has only been out for a few weeks, I couldn't be happier with the feedback I've been getting from reviewers and readers alike.

Now that my first book has been released, I've been busy working on the second book in the Destiny Series, Destiny's Mistress. I have also begun laying the groundwork for a contemporary paranormal series that I've been having a blast working with. Needless to say, I have several irons in the fire, and it is my sincerest hope that readers will keep an eye out for my work in the new year!

Warmest Wishes to All, Tracy Preston

Destiny's Captive

Blurb: Angeline Montgomery’s father is mysteriously murdered, forcing her to flee her home in New York and seek the shelter of her estranged family in England. When her ship is attacked by pirates, her dangerous curiosity reveals their captain is a high-ranking English noble. Astounded by the truth, she is taken captive by the suspicious, dark-eyed lord.

Lucian DeLattimer’s job is to pillage foreign cargo vessels beneath the cloak of the dreaded Jolly Roger. Discovering a beautiful spy aboard his latest conquest is not nearly as unsettling as his unwanted desire for the infuriating female who takes over his bed and his thoughts. When temptation ignites passion, they discover something neither dreamed possible.

But will they survive the deadly truth of her father’s scandalous past, or will it mean their imminent destruction?

Review: Destiny's CaptiveWRDF Reviews "Top Pick!"

"This story was fascinating from the first word to the last. The love these two characters share is extraordinary as is the entire book. I was completely captivated in the intricate tale Ms. Preston weaves between these pages. An amazing and purely magnificent work of literary art." -Terri Ann Armstrong, WRDF ReviewsGet Your eBook Copy From:The Wild Rose Press {http://www.thewildrosepress.com}, Amazon, Fictionwise, and other eBook retailers.Available in multiple eBook formats, PRINT copies available February 20, 2009.

Excerpt: His astute gaze shifted as he sensed movement in the corner of the room. There, poised to strike out with her jeweled dagger, was the most enticing woman he’d ever laid eyes upon. Gleaming honey tresses fell freely over her shoulders and down her back, probably freed from their restraints by her vigorous attempt at valiance. She visibly tensed when he took a step toward her. Fleetingly, he thought that she might really attempt to fight him off. It might be fun to let her try. He took closer stock of her lovely face. Beautifully sculpted features graced a flawless complexion—flawless except for the hint of freckles dusting across the bridge of her finely shaped nose. His grandmother would have berated this young woman for allowing the sun to tarnish her skin. By her estimation, it just wasn’t seemly for a girl to expose her skin to so much sunlight. Pasty, pale complexions were all the rage in London. Lucian, however, found her coloring most appealing.. He thought she looked healthy and vibrant.His gaze locked with hers. Her eyes were the most beautiful shade of blue, a subdued aquamarine. He could not deny she was enchanting, standing there as she was, poised to fight like one of Odin’s mythical valkyries."Stay back. I’m not afraid to run this blade right through your heart."She threatened with a confidence he was certain she did not feel, and so he took another step toward her."You haven’t the will nor the strength to kill me, little one," he said, his voice deep and soothing, his tone arrogantly sure.She took a step forward as if to assure him of her lethal intent, the dagger still clasped tightly in her trembling hand. She tilted her chin defiantly. "Underestimating me could prove to be a fatal error on your part."He knew if he didn’t defuse the situation quickly, she was going to end up harming herself. Pasting a sardonic smile to his lips, he deliberately allowed his dark eyes to rake slowly over her body.He taunted her with an incredulous chuckle. "What makes you think you can succeed where so many others have failed? You are just a woman, and a scrawny one at that." Rage glittered in her bright eyes as she lunged at him with the dagger aimed straight for his heart. He easily sidestepped the blow, at the same time grabbing her wrist and knocking the blade from her grasp, leaving it to fall uselessly to the floorboards with a heavy clank. "That will be enough of that, my lady."

With less than gentle movements, he carelessly tossed his burden over one shoulder and began moving towards the outer corridor. Displaying the unrestrained behavior of a wild animal caught in a trap, she kicked her feet and pounded frantically at his back. She struggled, yelling feverishly, "Put me down you big barbarian. You uncivilized savage! Let me go this instant, or be assured I will make you pay dearly."

"And exactly how will I pay, little one?" he challenged, more than a little impressed by her foolish display of bravery. When she continued to squirm and claw, he smacked her bottom with a loud whack.

"You’ll pay for this. You shall pay with your life. By all that is holy, I swear it!"

He chuckled in response. But just as he reached the entrance to Captain Warner’s quarters he felt a sharp pain just below his shoulder. With several grumbled curses he dropped his hostage unceremoniously onto the captain’s bunk.

"You bit me!" He stared at her, bewildered, trying to decide if she were daft. Whatever the case, he had to gain control of the situation immediately. "If you do not abstain from your childish tantrums, I am going to wring your lovely neck with my own two hands."

Between January 15 and March 17, 2009 - purchase any title from any of the following sponsoring authors and you can enter to win a free SONY eReader from The Wild Rose Press. Its easy to enter: once you purchase a book or short story from any of the participating authors email your order number to

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Christina Hollis was born a few miles from Georgian Bath in England. She began writing from the moment she could hold a pencil. Her vivid imagination was an asset in English lessons at school, but didn’t go down too well in science studies.

After leaving school she worked as a clerical assistant in the financial sector, and later as a gopher in the marketing department. This was followed by a short stint as a technical librarian. She spent all her spare time writing, with some success. She met her husband on a blind date, and after a whirlwind romance they married six months later. It was his idea that she should take up writing full time. Freelance work for national magazines and newspapers followed, and six of her historical novels were published by Harlequin Mills and Boon under the pen name of Polly Forrester.

After a long break to raise a family, Christina took a refresher course in creative writing led by the Welsh poet Paul Groves. It worked, and in January 2007 her first Modern Romance, The Italian Billionaire’s Virgin was published by Harlequin Mills and Boon. Since then she has written non-stop, producing several more books and an associated website, http://www.christinahollis.com/

Her recent paperback releases include Count Giovanni’s Virgin and One Night in His Bed. The Ruthless Italian’s Inexperienced Wife has recently been released, both as a paperback and an ebook:

From virgin nanny – to the boss’s bride! Nanny Cheryl Lane has been summoned to Tuscany by billionaire Marco Rossi. His ruthless, brooding reputation precedes him. Marco Rossi has hired Cheryl to look after his orphaned nephew. But little does he realise that he’s employed such a ripe young beauty; she may try to hide her luscious curves beneath a dowdy uniform, but Marco’s no fool… The desire to unbutton the prim Miss Lane is so tempting – and he could never resist a challenge…

Christina’s next book is called Her Ruthless Italian Boss:

Beth Woodbury thinks she’s put the past behind her. Until she discovers her new boss is ruthless Italian Luca Francesco! Beth has to beg his forgiveness for the past. She needs this job! Luca lets her stay on one condition: she’ll assist him in the day – and warm his bed at night! And this time there’ll be no talk of marriage…or babies… But soon Beth is pregnant – with her formidable boss’s heir!

Her Ruthless Italian Boss will be released in February 2009 as both a Harlequin Presents paperback and in ebook format.

When she isn’t writing, Christina loves pottering in the garden and grows a lot of home-grow fruit and vegetables. These come in useful for her other hobby, cooking. In 2008 she passed her basic beekeeping test, the first step toward producing honey as well as helping this endangered species and improving pollination around her garden.

Christina Hollis loves discovering the many ways attraction can develop into love. As her heroes and heroines discover things about one another they find out things about themselves, too. Hidden hurts and deeply buried disappointments can’t always be cured, but everything improves when it is touched by love.

Books In Print

The Ruthless Italian's Inexperienced Wife.

Nanny Cheryl Lane has been summoned to Tuscany by billionaire Marco Rossi. His ruthless, brooding reputation precedes him.Marco Rossi has hired Cheryl to look after his orphaned nephew. But little does he realise that he's employed such a ripe young beauty; she may try to hide her luscious curves beneath a dowdy uniform, but Marco's no fool...The desire to unbutton the prim Miss Lane is so tempting - and he could never resist a challenge...

Her Ruthless Italian Boss.

Beth Woodbury thinks she's put the past behind her. Until she discovers her new boss is ruthless Italian Luca Francesco!Beth has to beg his forgiveness for the past She needs this job! Luca lets her stay on one condition: she'll assist him in the day - and warm his bed at night! And this time there'll be NO talk of marriage... or babies...But soon Beth is pregnant - with her formidable boss's heir!

One Night in His Bed.

Penniless and widowed, Sienna has caught the eye of the one man who can save her Italian tycoon Garett Lazlo, who can't resist her beauty. But dark-hearted Garett doesn't do anything for free, no matter how desirable the prospect. He offers Sienna a ruthless deal: he will help her, but she must play by his rules - by giving herself to him totally, for one night of unsurpassable passion...

Count Giovanni's Virgin.

When shy virgin Katie Carter is summoned to renovate a sumptuous Tuscan villa, she thinks only of her passion for design. Little does she realise that the enigmatic owner, Count Giovanni Amato, will stir up emotions she's long kept buried.Giovanni is going to have her, and she knows she won't be able to resist. But the Count has two unbroken rules... there's no room for a wife in his life. And definitely no child!So what will the brooding, aristocratic billionaire do when he finds out that Katie is carrying his heir? Italian Husbands They're tall, dark... and ready to marry!

The Italian Billionaire's Virgin.

When he finds out that Contessa Larissa Alfere-Tiziano has inherited a Tuscan palace, gorgeous, ruthless, Italian Propery Magnate Antonio Michaeli-Isola is determined to reclaim his birthright and make the palazzo his own! And if that means seducing and then disgracing the beautiful, spoilt Contessa... then he will.But Rissa is keeping up a pretence that her title has forced upon her. Though Antonio thinks she's no better than a gold-digging adventuress, in reality the vulnerable virgin is struggling to make ends meet. As she gives him her innocence, will Antonio realise his misapprehension... before it's too late?

I've always been an avid reader, from Dr. Seuss before school age, to Walter Farley's "Black Stallion" series as a preteen, then on to romance where I found my passion. Mainstream, contemporary, historical...it did not matter. If it was a romance, I read it! They say 'don't judge a book by its cover' but I refused to listen...if it looked good, I read it.

One day while pregnant with my daughter I flung the book I currently attempted to devour in disgust and muttered, "I can do better than that!" I'm still not sure if the book was really that bad or if I merely had a hormonal moment, but thus began my writing journey. That incident occurred more than twenty-five years ago and I must say I, as an author as well as a human being, have evolved a great deal in a quarter of a century.

In 1989 I recommitted my life to Christ and committed my writing to Him and my focus changed from “just another romance” to something that would change hearts, impact lives and give Him glory. Today I have 5 full-length novels and 3 (soon to be 4) short stories that reflect this commitment.